Tempe field guide
First-Time Visitor's Guide to Tempe
Discover Tempe's walkable downtown core and accessible natural beauty for an authentic, car-free first visit.
Published 10/17/2026 · Updated 10/17/2026
This guide is for first-time visitors to Tempe who want an authentic, walkable experience without needing a car or venturing far from the city center. It's designed for a day trip or the first day of a longer visit, looking for a focused introduction to Tempe.
Your outing will be a packed but manageable half-day to full-day, combining activity, culture, and relaxation, with a mid-range budget. We've selected experiences and places that are uniquely Tempe, accessible on foot from the downtown core, and offer a clear sense of place for a first-time visitor.
Morning: Panoramic Views & Local Finds
Start your day with an invigorating hike that connects you directly to Tempe's landscape, followed by a unique local stop.
Scout Outing Plan
Morning Views and Local Finds
This outing kicks off with an invigorating climb up Hayden Butte for panoramic views of Tempe and the surrounding desert landscape, feeling the city spread out beneath you. Afterward, transition from the outdoors to a quiet, creative neighborhood shop by strolling down to Ash Avenue Comics & Books to browse a thoughtfully curated selection. This combination offers a lively outdoor start before you settle into a more relaxed, distinctive cultural stop, all within easy walking distance.
Midday: Arts & Waterfront Exploration
After your active morning, transition to exploring Tempe's artistic side and its prominent waterfront, offering a mix of indoor culture and relaxed outdoor charm.
Scout Outing Plan
A Day of Art and History in Tempe
Immerse yourself in Tempe's local story by visiting the Tempe History Museum for about 1.5 hours, exploring exhibits that trace the city's past. From there, enjoy a relaxed afternoon stop for a sweet treat or sandwich at Arai Pastry. Conclude your midday by crossing the Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge, offering scenic views and a peaceful, free walk for about 30 minutes. This plan offers a cultural anchor, a local culinary break, and a picturesque outdoor stroll.
Afternoon: Culture or Leisure
Depending on your mood, you can lean into more culture or opt for a relaxing indoor experience, especially if the weather calls for it.
Scout Outing Plan
Tempe Arts & Flavors Indoors
For a cooler, more structured afternoon, this outing delivers an engaging cultural exploration at the Tempe Center For The Arts, where you can spend a few hours seeing a show or visiting a small gallery. Follow this with a satisfying dinner at The Hudson Eatery & Bar, a casual spot for American comfort food and drinks. This plan is designed for shifting indoors and enjoying both performing arts and a relaxed meal.
Alternative
Instead: Browse Barnes & Noble
Shopping · 4.6★
If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed indoor afternoon, spend an hour or two browsing books and magazines at Barnes & Noble in Tempe. This is a good place to unwind after a meal, offering a low-cost option to grab a coffee and simply relax.
- Best for
- A quiet, low-key indoor activity
- When to go
- Afternoon
- Allow
- 1-2 hours
- Heads up
- Costs typically $5-30 per person for purchases or coffee.
Book ahead
Private Scottsdale Off-Road Jeep Tour
5.0★ · 1,283 reviews · 3 hr
While not in Tempe itself, if your mood shifts to a more adventurous outdoor experience and you have transportation available, consider this 3-hour Private Scottsdale Off-Road Jeep Tour, rated 5 stars. It's a way to connect with the broader desert landscape surrounding the metro area.
- Best for
- Adventurous visitors looking for an off-road experience
- When to go
- Afternoon
- Allow
- 3 hr
- Heads up
- Meeting address is in Arizona, 85006. This is a private tour starting from $219.
Affiliate links: Scout may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Explore expedition →Evening: Local Flavors & Entertainment
Cap off your day with a distinct Tempe dining experience that reflects the local vibe.
Scout's Pick
Dinner at Cornish Pasty Co
Nightlife · 4.6★
For a casual, flavorful dinner that reflects Tempe's unpretentious character, head to Cornish Pasty Co in the Riverside neighborhood. This spot is perfect for a meal of savory pasties and drinks. Expect to spend around an hour to an hour and a half and $15-35 per person, potentially with live music on weekends.
- Best for
- Casual dinner with a unique menu
- When to go
- Evening
- Allow
- 1-1.5 hours
- Heads up
- Known for pasties and drinks, check for live music schedules.
Alternative
Alternatively: The Hudson Eatery & Bar
Food & Drink · 4.7★
If you're in the mood for American comfort food and a casual atmosphere, The Hudson Eatery & Bar is a good choice. It's a relaxed spot for a meal, drinks, and potentially watching sports, making for an easygoing end to your day. Expect to spend 1-2 hours for your meal, costing around $15-40 per person.
- Best for
- Casual American comfort food
- When to go
- Evening
- Allow
- 1-2 hours
- Heads up
- Good for watching sports in a relaxed setting.
Where to stay · Tempe
Where to stay
For this walkable, downtown-focused itinerary, staying in Downtown Tempe near Tempe Town Lake is ideal. This ensures you're steps away from the places listed, minimizing travel time and making the most of your car-free experience. You'll find a variety of accommodations that keep you connected to the city's energy.
ResortPass experience
Day Pass at The Westin Tempe
Pool day
For a midday reset or to cool off during warmer months, consider a Day Pass at The Westin Tempe. This allows you to enjoy a pool day within downtown, providing a refreshing break from walking and exploring. Check with ResortPass for current pass inclusions and amenities offered with the day pass.
Check current pass inclusions with ResortPass
Affiliate links: Scout may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
ResortPass experience
Day Pass at Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU
Pool day
Another excellent option for a pool day is the Day Pass at Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU. This offers a chance to relax and unwind by the pool, conveniently located within the downtown area. As with all ResortPass bookings, it's best to check directly with ResortPass for the most up-to-date information on what amenities are included with this specific pass.
Check current pass inclusions with ResortPass
Affiliate links: Scout may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Common questions
What is the best time of year to visit Tempe for this guide?
This guide is best enjoyed during cooler months, typically October through April, for comfortable outdoor activities like hiking. Summer mornings are ideal for the hike, but indoor activities should dominate the afternoon.
Do I need to book activities in advance?
Most activities mentioned are walk-in, but some performances at Tempe Center For The Arts might require advance booking, especially if you plan to attend a specific show.
What is the signature moment for a first-time visitor in Tempe?
The signature moment is reaching the top of Hayden Butte for panoramic views of Tempe Town Lake and the city skyline, offering a profound connection to the landscape and the energy below.